Smith vs Gills on Saturday?

Last updated : 12 January 2006 By Simon Head

Andy Crofts v Paul Smith: Who's your money on? It could happen this weekend

"Paul has been training with us today and he is someone who I know well. I have spoken to both Paul and his agent over recent days and hopefully we can sort something out for him to join us," Iffy Onuora told the official Swindon website.

"He will bring a bit more of a presence to the midfield and also competition for places in that area. Hopefully we can get something sorted sooner rather than later, but I am mindful that he hasn't played a lot of games recently so may need more match fitness.

"I know all about Paul's strength so there will be times when those qualities will suit us down to the ground. He is a tremendous ball winner and he will make tackles. I think he won the player of the year award seven years out of eight when I was there! Should we manage to sort out a deal - he will be one who will lead from the front and will lead by example."

"In terms of bringing him to the club - I think this is third time lucky now as he is someone who we have been after for a while," said Iffy.

Despite Onuora's optimism over the possibility of Smith signing, fans of both Gillingham and Walsall have been hugely critical of Smith's performances so far this season - and the player was booed off the field by the Gills fans during his final performance for the club, the 5-0 thrashing at Colchester United. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to regain the form of two or three seasons ago, though Onuora is optimistic that in Smith he has a potentially very important player.

It'll certainly be interesting to see Smith lining up against the likes of Andrew Crofts, Michael Flynn and Alan Pouton if he is registered in time for the match at the weekend. After suggesting that he had been stitched up by Gills chairman Paul Scally, there certainly won't be a more fired up player on the pitch than our former captain, that's for sure.

How do you think Smith would fare if he does end playing the Gills on Saturday? Will he get the better of the Gills midfield? Share your views on the Gills365 forums.